Advisory
July 7, 2026
July 8, 2026
July 9, 2026
July 10, 2026
July 11, 2026
The theft of catalytic converters remains a significant issue that car owners encounter nationwide. This specific vehicle component has become the focal point of numerous thefts throughout Southern California. Thieves typically sell catalytic converters for about $300 to $500, while victims of these crimes may incur costs of up to $3,000 for a replacement.
To assist car owners in preventing or minimizing this type of theft, several strategies have been developed:
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) is aware of this crime trend and is actively working to prevent such incidents within our community. Increased patrols in neighborhoods, local businesses, and schools. Educating the community on preventative measures is just one of the ways we are committed to ensuring the safety of our citizens and their vehicles.
It should be noted that Toyota Corollas (all years) have been the vehicle of choice for the recent uptick in catalytic converter thefts.
Crime Blotter for the Week of July 5, 2026 – July 11, 2026
The following is a synopsis of crimes reported from July 5, 2026 – July 11, 2026.
July 5, 2026
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- 1200 block of Sunnydale Drive – On July 5, 2026 at 2:27 PM, during an argument with neighbors, the suspect brandished a weapon at the victim. Arrest made. Temple DB to follow up.
- No significant activity.
July 7, 2026
- No significant activity.
July 8, 2026
- No significant activity.
July 9, 2026
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter)
- 1900 block of Buena Vista Street – Between 6 PM on July 3, 2026 and 10 AM on July 8, 2026, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s catalytic converter from their Honda Accord. No arrest made. No surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow up. The crime was reported on July 9, 2026.
July 10, 2026
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter)
- 1900 block of Chesson Street – On July 10, 2026 at 1 AM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s catalytic converter from their Toyota Corolla. No arrest made. No surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow up.
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter)
- 900 block of Highland Avenue – On July 10, 2026 at 2 AM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s catalytic converter from their Toyota Corolla. No arrest made. No surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow up.
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter)
- 1900 block of Chesson Street – On July 10, 2026 at 1 AM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s catalytic converter from their vehicle. No arrest made. No surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow up.
July 11, 2026
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter)
- 1900 block of Buena Vista Street – Between 6 PM on July 9, 2026 and 9 AM on July 11, 2026, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s catalytic converter from their Toyota Camry. No arrest made. No surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow up. The crime was reported on July 11, 2026.
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS – CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFT
Summer is here, and the thieves know it. Catalytic converter thefts are widespread!! While specific daily theft numbers fluctuate, California has experienced a high volume of catalytic converter thefts, with estimates ranging from a few dozen to hundreds per day in certain areas. The theft of catalytic converters remains a significant issue that car owners encounter nationwide. This specific vehicle component has become the focal point of numerous thefts throughout Southern California. Thieves typically sell catalytic converters for about $300 to $500, while victims of these crimes may incur costs of up to $3,000 for a replacement.
To assist car owners in preventing or minimizing this type of theft, several strategies have been developed:
- Engrave serial numbers on catalytic converters using your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
- Install an anti-theft device specifically designed for catalytic converters. These devices come in various forms from multiple manufacturers and can enhance security against theft.
- Park vehicles in garages or carports. If you're parking in driveways or on streets, consider the installation of motion sensor security lights, cameras, and anti-theft car alarms. Motion-sensing lights can deter some thieves by suddenly illuminating the area, prompting them to leave.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) is aware of this crime trend and is actively working to prevent such incidents within our community. Increased patrols in neighborhoods, local businesses, and schools. Educating the community on preventative measures is just one of the ways we are committed to ensuring the safety of our citizens and their vehicles.
It should be noted that Toyota Corollas (all years) have been the vehicle of choice for the recent uptick in catalytic converter thefts.
Address/Location
City of Duarte
1600 Huntington Dr
Duarte, CA 91010
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 626-357-7931
TEXT-A-TIP - Text TIP DUARTE followed by your message, to 888777
